Toms River, NJ, June 25, 2026 – OCVTS held its 103rd commencement ceremony for the graduates of the Practical Nursing program. Families and friends gathered to recognize the 58 graduates who persevered through the extremely challenging curriculum and demanding schedules and successfully completed the program. In addition to receiving diplomas, the graduates were welcomed to their new profession with the traditional pinning ceremony. The graduates receive a symbolic pin from a member of the faculty or by a family member who is also a nursing professional. This year, 18 of the 58 graduates were pinned by family members; 4 of those 18 family members were past graduates of the OCVTS Practical Nursing Program.

Several 2026 graduates received scholarships and recognition for outstanding achievements. The Ocean County Foundation for Vocational Technical Education presented Awards of Academic Excellence/Outstanding Student Awards to Darlyn Booc for maintaining the highest-grade point average; Sandra Krill for maintaining the second highest average, and Natalie Lelievre for maintaining the third highest grade point average throughout the program.

OCVTS has forged valuable partnerships with more than a dozen local hospitals and healthcare facilities, facilitating invaluable practical experience for students and allowing them to seamlessly integrate theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom with real-world applications. Over half of the required hours of the Practical Nursing Program involves clinical rotations at these facilities, providing students with opportunities to gain experience and apply classroom theory.

This year, the Practical Nursing Program was fortunate to benefit from the generosity of the MC Russo Foundation, whose scholarship support helped students throughout their educational journey. By easing the financial burden of tuition and related expenses, the Foundation enabled the students to remain focused on their academic and clinical success while pursuing their professional goals.

In addition, the Barbara Haines / Jo-Ann Price Nursing Excellence Award honoring two of the program’s past principals was awarded by the MC Russo Foundation to recognize two graduates who demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and clinical performance, leadership, professionalism, compassion, and commitment to the nursing profession. This prestigious award celebrates the recipients’ achievements and serves as encouragement as they begin their career in healthcare.

The students receiving this award, Natalie Lelievre and Andrew Nguyen, maintained strong academic performance throughout the nursing program, demonstrated dedication to learning and professional growth, applied evidence-based knowledge in clinical settings, demonstrated exceptional clinical judgment and patient-care skills, provided safe, compassionate, and patient-centered care, exhibit confidence, accountability, and professionalism in clinical practice, as well as received positive evaluations from clinical instructors and staff. As leaders in the program these students served as positive role model for their peers, demonstrated initiative, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities, and contributed positively to the learning environment. Throughout their clinical experiences, they consistently demonstrated compassion and professionalism by treating patients, families, peers, and faculty with dignity and respect. They approached every interaction with empathy, integrity, and a strong commitment to ethical practice, fostering trust and meaningful relationships. Their communication and conduct reflected the highest standards of professionalism, even in challenging situations. They also served as a dedicated advocate for patients, promoting patient-centered care and consistently striving to improve the quality and safety of care provided.

Notably, Aaliyah Ridley and Maryline Solis received the Bernadette DeFrancisci Scholarship Award for excelling in their clinical work environments, exhibiting flexibility as role models and mentors, and maintaining a positive and caring attitude. This scholarship, named in honor of retired OCVTS instructor Bernadette DeFrancisci, was provided by Cordella Lyon, MAEM, BS, RN, and Dr. Ann McGowan, alumni of the OCVTS program, in honor of Mrs. "D".

Together, these scholarships reflect the commitment of our donors as they invest in the success of our students and the future of the nursing profession.

Additionally, Maryline Solis received an award for perfect attendance while Philippe Janus Earl Piano and Andrew Nguyen both had exemplary attendance. Despite illness, bad weather, and hectic personal and academic schedules. These students never missed a full day of school, both in class and the clinical area.

At this time students are prepared to take the National Council Licensure Examination for qualification as
a Licensed Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN).

For additional information on the Practical Nursing program at Ocean County Vocational Technical School, please visit ocvts.org or contact 732.473.3100 extension 3137 or 3145.